Ladies basketball recognition

Girls basketball has been a continuous part of the Cape Girardeau Central High School athletic program since 1976. What you may not know is that the first girls team was formed during the 1911-1912 school year. That season, eight girls were coached by Bertha K. Gowan, a Latin and English teacher.

Practice was held at night at the Normal School gym, but some didn't attend practice because parents didn't want their daughters out at night. Travel was by train, with one such trip to Malden, Mo., where they were fed and lodged with families of the players there. In 1926, all girls sports were abolished by the state athletic association because doctors found it detrimental to the girls' well-being.

Equity in athletics came about with the passing of Title IX, and basketball was back for good at Central in 1976. Athletic letters were then awarded to our female athletes, and they were invited to the annual athletic banquet. Several district and sectional championships followed, and in 1989, the Lady Tigers finished fourth in the state under the guidance of coach Mark Ruark.

As a former Central player and now head coach, I am pleased to invite all former players and coaches to come home to Central for our centennial celebration. On Feb. 4, we take on Rosati Kain in Tiger Field House. Freshmen play at 11 a.m., followed by JV and varsity. Recognition will take place before the varsity game around 1:30 p.m. I look forward to seeing you there.

SHERRI SHIRRELL, Class of 1982 and current

Central High School Lady Tiger basketball coach,

Cape Girardeau